by JACK MILNER. ROYAL Ascot is upon us, and aside from the pageantry, the fashion and bubbly, there is also a terrific opportunity to earn a few quid for your jollies, pun very much intended! How about this for an offer? BetVictor is going NO LOSE HUGHES – refunding your net losses on any game if Richard Hughes is in the frame! And it all kicks off in spectacular fashion on the Tuesday, when the Kentucky Derby and Dubai World Cup winner Animal Kingdom comes across the pond to cement his status as an international superstar.

The race has been won by several greats in recent years; Canford Cliffs, Goldikova and Frankel, and I expect this horse to live up to such a lofty reputation.

It could be an absolute bloodbath for the bookmakers with some very warm favourites on Tuesday, and if the first couple come in, we may see the last couple going off especially short. Aidan O’ Brien has a tremendous record in the St James’s Palace Stakes, winning it six times in the last decade, four of which have come en route from winning the Irish 2000 Guineas, and Magician will be looking to carry on that fine tradition. He bolted up at Chester and then followed that up with a spectacular turn of foot at the Curragh. A competitive field is expected however, with Toronado, Garswood and Glory Awaits all confirmed thus far.

The King’s Stand Stakes has another international raider and another Dubai World Cup night winner in Shea Shea who has now been confirmed for champion South African trainer Mike De Kock. He broke the track record when winning that night, and if he turns up in a similar mood, will be very difficult to beat.

The fourth race is another that has been kind to Ballydoyle with the Coventry Stakes also usually providing early 2,000 Guineas clues, with O’ Brien having Stubbs, Coach House, Michaelmas and Sir John Hawkins all entered. Whichever gets the nod and also gets Ryan Moore legged up will be respected, and will definitely be backed by yours truly.

Go to BetVictor for the latest Royal Ascot betting.